Hailey
The month of December is off to a classic winter start as KAKEland experiences its first snow of the season. After an unusually warm fall across central and south-central Kansas, the region is finally seeing temperatures drop enough for measurable snowfall.
Early December weather models show a band of light to moderate snow building across central Kansas before sliding southeast into major parts of KAKEland.
A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for several counties north of Highway 50, where colder temperatures and more consistent snow bands are expected.
For many residents, this storm marks the first widespread, travel-impacting snow after months of dry, mild weather.
Snowfall Totals- How Much Is Expected?
Forecasters expect this system to be a typical early-season snow event, bringing enough accumulation to whiten roads and rooftops but not a winter storm of major severity.
Current projections show:
- 2–4 inches of snow across central Kansas, especially areas near and north of Highway 50
- 1 inch or slightly less for Wichita and surrounding communities
- Dusting to 1 inch across southern and southeastern KAKEland
- Daytime temperatures hovering in the upper 20s to low 30s, allowing snow to accumulate on grassy surfaces and potentially on untreated roads
Meteorologists note that Wichita will see snow, but accumulation there is likely to stay on the lower end, with heavier snowfall centered in northern KAKEland.
Snowfall & Impact
| Region / Areas | Advisory Status | Expected Snow | Timing (Dec 1) | Main Impacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Kansas (Hutchinson, McPherson, Newton) | Winter Weather Advisory | 2–4 inches | Early morning to afternoon | Snow-covered roads, slower travel |
| South-Central KAKEland (Wichita Metro) | No advisory | Around 1 inch | Morning to midday | Slick bridges and overpasses |
| Southeast KAKEland (Winfield, Arkansas City) | Light snow expected | Dusting to 1 inch | Late morning | Reduced visibility, brief slush |
Is This Snow Early, Late, or Right on Time?
This snowfall actually falls right within the normal range for KAKEland. Wichita and surrounding cities typically see their first measurable snowfall between late November and early December.
The average date for Wichita’s first measurable snow is in the first few days of December.
Historically:
- Wichita often sees its first measurable snow around December 2
- The first 1-inch snowfall usually comes closer to mid-December
- December normally brings around 3 inches of total snowfall to the region
- Seasonal snowfall averages roughly 12–13 inches across south-central Kansas
This makes the current snowfall event perfectly in line with the region’s typical winter climate.
Travel Impacts Across KAKEland
Even on days when snow totals are modest, the first snow of the year tends to cause more issues than later storms.
Drivers have not yet adjusted to winter road conditions, and road crews are performing their first widespread salt and plow operations of the season.
Drivers should watch for:
- Slick bridges and overpasses
- Reduced visibility during moderate snow bands
- Slow morning commute conditions
- Cold wind chills in the low teens
- Slushy neighborhood roads, especially early in the morning
Schools and workplaces are not expecting large-scale closures, but delays are possible in areas that pick up heavier bands of snow.
Preparing for the Start of Winter
This system serves as a reminder for KAKEland residents to make sure winter preparations are complete:
- Check your vehicle tires and wipers
- Refill windshield washer fluid
- Prepare a winter safety kit
- Add extra travel time for the morning commute
- Keep warm clothing and blankets accessible
With more cold fronts expected in the coming weeks, this first snow may be just a preview of what lies ahead.
December’s arrival brings a crisp, wintry scene across KAKEland as the region welcomes its first measurable snowfall of the season.
With 2–4 inches in northern areas and around 1 inch for Wichita, this system aligns perfectly with typical early-December patterns.
While not severe, the snowfall will create slick roads, travel delays, and colder conditions—a clear signal that winter has officially begun.
As temperatures continue to drop, KAKEland residents should prepare for additional snow chances throughout the season.